Inspired Insider With Dr. Jeremy Weisz | Ecommerce Interviews | Entrepreneurship | Inspirational Stories | Business Lessons

Anita Akrishnana and Nalini are the co-founders of Route to India - a health brand focused on inspiring and guiding individuals in feeling their best through food, Ayurveda and holistic lifestyle. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:41] Jeremy welcomes his guests, Anita Akrishnan and Nalini Mehta.  [2:20] How did Anita and Nalini start their business?  [4:20] The different flavors offered by Route to India.  [7:00] Challenges and proud moments encountered along the way.  In this episode… How can you make your business stand out from the crowd? What sets your business apart from all the other competitors in your market? If you don’t have a competitive edge yet - you need to get one soon! On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from business leaders and innovators, Anita Akrishnan and Nalini Mehta. In their conversation with Jeremy, Anita and Nalini open up about why they started Route to India, challenges they have faced along the way, why they love delivering high-quality food, and much more

Sean Magennis is the President and COO of YPO — (formerly Young Presidents' Organization) a global community of chief executives dedicated to becoming Better Leaders. The YPO platform has more than 27,000 members in more than 138 countries. YPO is arguably one of the most powerful groups in the world. To qualify a member has to have at least 10million dollars in annual sales. Sean began his career in South Africa at one of the country’s largest producers of agricultural chemicals. He founded an Organizational Development Consulting business and Executive Search business. Currently an advisor of 2 companies - Nuooly - gig economy business for independent attorneys and Rem brothers which is a hospitality and food services business - 3 concepts near Purdue and Dallas. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [2:50] Jeremy introduces his guest, Sean Magennis.  [5:00] Sean talks about his experience visiting Israel.  [7:00] The value of reflecting on gratitude.  [8:40] Facing challenges both personally and profess

Michael Pan is the founder of Pan’s Mushroom Jerky. When Michael was traveling throughout Malaysia visiting extended family he was offered a rich, savory snack that he thought was pork-based. He discovered that it was a family recipe featuring shiitake mushrooms, and the idea for Pan’s Mushroom Jerky was born.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Jeremy welcomes his guest, Michael Pan.  [2:10] What led Michael to create Mushroom Jerky?  [4:00] Michael talks about the production process.  [5:00] Proud moments and challenges faced.  In this episode… Where do you go to get in touch with your creative side? What do you need to do to quite all the noise and just focus on your thoughts and your plans for your business? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you'll hear from entrepreneur and innovator, Michael Pan. In his conversation with Jeremy, Michael opens up about his trip to Malaysia, what led him to start his business, challenges they've faced along the way, plans for the next stage in the busines

Jason Swenk runs a unique consultancy helping marketing agency owners grow their agencies faster. He is the resource he wish he had when he started his agency. Jason currently hosts two podcasts: The Smart Agency Master Class Podcast sharing strategies and stories from real agency owners and SwenkToday which is a weekly show that documents how you can grow your digital agency. Early on Jason decided to quit his day job and launch a digital marketing agency that grew to a multi-million dollar operation, 100 staff, and they worked with brands from AT&T, Hitachi, and Lotus Cars. After 12 years of growth, he sold the agency in 2012. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [2:55] Jeremy introduces his guest, Jason Swenk.  [4:50] Why did Jason start his podcast?  [7:20] The best foot-in-the-door offers from Jason’s career.  [15:30] Customer success stories.  [19:15] Helping clients shift their mindset when it comes to marketing costs.  [22:20] How setting prices too low can hurt you.  [26:00] Tools that Jason

Daniel Staackmann is the founder of Upton’s Naturals - an independently owned producer of vegan foods founded in 2006. The company is focused on meat alternatives using innovative` ingredients such as wheat-based seitan and jackfruit. Upton’s Naturals sells its foods across the United States and around the world. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Daniel Saackmann joins the podcast to talk about Upton’s Naturals.  [3:15] Why Daniel decided to go vegan and create vegan products.  [5:40] Daniel goes through the different products available in their store.  [7:50] Bringing jackfruit to the marketplace.  [10:00] Challenges that Daniel encountered along the way and how he overcame them.  [14:00] The proudest moment from Daniel’s career.  In this episode… Can you imagine what it would be like to never eat a steak, a plate of ribs, or a cheeseburger ever again? Does this scenario sound impossible, easy to accomplish, or somewhere in between? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from busines

Rob Dalton is the co-founder of 88 Acres, a small-scale bakery in urban Boston. Leading the operation is Rob and his wife, Nicole - together, they are on a mission to deliver healthy snacks on an ingredient platform of seeds.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Rob Dalton joins the podcast and explains how he started his business.  [3:20] How have the products evolved and changed over the years.  [7:00] Why create a roasted Watermelon seed butter? How does the process work?  [9:30] Challenges that Rob and his business have faced along the way.  In this episode… What does it take to navigate a nuanced and layered relationship in America today? Quick answer: A whole lot of time and patience! Now, throw into that equation the challenge of building a business at the same time - does that sound impossible? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from business leader and innovator, Rob Dalton. In his conversation with Scott, Rob opens up about how he and his wife met, what led them to start 8

Sean Magennis is the President and COO of YPO (formerly Young Presidents' Organization) - a global community of chief executives dedicated to becoming Better Leaders. The YPO platform has more than 27,000 members in more than 138 countries. YPO is arguably one of the most powerful groups in the world, to qualify a member has to have at least 10 million dollars in annual sales. Sean began his career in South Africa at one of the country’s largest producers of agricultural chemicals. He also founded an Organizational Development Consulting business and Executive Search business. Currently, Seah is an advisor of two companies, Nuooly - a gig economy business for independent attorneys and Rem brothers which is a hospitality and food services business.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [2:50] Jeremy introduces his guest, Sean Magennis.  [5:00] Sean talks about his experience visiting Israel.  [7:00] The value of reflecting on gratitude.  [8:40] Facing challenges both personally and professionally.  [12:00]

Jason Katzenback is the co-founder of Amazing. Jason always knew he was going to be a leader when he marched into the break room at one of his jobs at age 23 and told his fellow employees that he would be their boss within 5 years...which he did in 3 years. Jason ended up quitting his job after realizing that being with the company was not as secure as he had thought and did $3.5 million the following year. He eventually met Matt Clark and the rest was history and Amazing.com has taught over 30,000 students how to build a successful Amazon business. Amazing has their flagship course, Amazing Selling Machine, Seller Pro their monthly membership, Amazing Accelerators for existing sellers looking to scale their business, and their annual conference Seller Con not to be missed with past speakers like Richard Branson, Sara Blakely the founder of Spanx, and many more. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [2:45] Jeremy welcomes his guest, Jason Katzenback.  [5:20] How business life has impacted Jason’s parenting

Jason Swenk runs a unique consultancy helping marketing agency owners grow their agencies faster. He is the resource he wish he had when he started his agency. Jason currently hosts two podcasts: The Smart Agency Master Class Podcast sharing strategies and stories from real agency owners and SwenkToday which is a weekly show that documents how you can grow your digital agency. Early on Jason decided to quit his day job and launch a digital marketing agency that grew to a multi-million dollar operation, 100 staff, and they worked with brands from AT&T, Hitachi, and Lotus Cars. After 12 years of growth, he sold the agency in 2012. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [2:55] Jeremy introduces his guest, Jason Swenk.  [4:50] Why did Jason start his podcast?  [6:40] Horror stories from working with clients.  [8:40] Tips from Jason’s exit from his agency.  In this episode… How do you expand your reach and positively influence more people? Should you learn how to become a world-class public speaker, or is t

Gene Mealhow is the owner of Tiny But Mighty Foods and has been producing Tiny But Mighty Popcorn® since the late 1990s. A third-generation family farmer and soil consultant by profession, Gene continues to build his company and consult with farmers regarding organic certification. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Gene Mealhow joins Jeremy to talk about Tiny But Mighty Foods.  [2:00] From soil consultant to business owner.  [5:40] How Gene secured a grant to buy Tiny But Mighty Foods.  [7:10] Connecting with Whole Foods.  [11:00] Closing thoughts.  In this episode… What does it take to break free from the rat-race? How do you cut through all the noise and make sure your message and your product stand out to a wider audience? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from entrepreneur and innovator, Gene Mealhow. In his conversation with Jeremy, Gene opens up about his time as a soil consultant, what it took to secure a partnership with Whole Foods, challenges he has faced along the way,

Jason Katzenback is the co-founder of Amazing. Jason always knew he was going to be a leader when he marched into the break room at one of his jobs at age 23 and told his fellow employees that he would be their boss within 5 years...which he did in 3 years. Jason ended up quitting his job after realizing that being with the company was not as secure as he had thought and did $3.5 million the following year. He eventually met Matt Clark and the rest was history and Amazing.com has taught over 30,000 students how to build a successful Amazon business. Amazing has their flagship course, Amazing Selling Machine, Seller Pro their monthly membership, Amazing Accelerators for existing sellers looking to scale their business, and their annual conference Seller Con not to be missed with past speakers like Richard Branson, Sara Blakely the founder of Spanx, and many more. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [2:45] Jeremy welcomes his guest, Jason Katzenback.  [5:20] How business life has impacted Jason’s parenting

Aaron Goldstein is a Director at Lincoln International - a multinational independent investment bank and financial services company specializing in advisory services and financings on middle-market transactions. The firm works with publicly traded and privately-owned companies, financial sponsors, and lenders. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Aaron joins the podcast to talk about Lincoln International. [4:00] How to get higher multiples when selling a business.  [6:30] Aaron talks about the direct to consumer business model.  [8:00] Does your brand have an ability to scale?  [10:30] Customer success stories.  [12:40] Closing thoughts from Aaron.  In this episode… How do you take thriving business and gracefully exit it as the owner? Who do you approach to purchase your business? What should you know ahead of time to put your business in the best position for a future sale? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from business leader Aaron Goldstein. In his conversation with Jeremy, Aa

Justin Gold is the founder of Justin’s, a natural foods company that produces organic and all-natural nut butters and peanut butter cups. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Justin Gold joins the podcast to talk about Justin's.  [1:45] How did Justins get started?  [4:40] The first milestones that Justin accomplished.  [7:30] An evolution of product selections.  [10:00] The biggest challenge for Justin and his team.  In this episode… What do great leaders do when they are faced with roadblocks or challenges? Do they look for something else to do or do they forge ahead? Any leader worth their weight in salt will tell you that you create a way forward when all other options are closed. On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from entrepreneur and innovator, Justin Gold. In his conversation with Jeremy, Justin opens up about how he started Justin’s, the milestones that they reached as a startup, how the product selection has evolved over time, and so much more. You’ll want to pay close atte

Hassan Alireza is the CEO and Founder of The Daily Crave - a snack food business that strives to make delicious, better-for-you snacks. Their Quinoa Chips, Lentil Chips, Veggie Chips and Veggie Sticks are non-GMO and contain no MSG, no hydrogenated fats, no trans fats, no artificial colors, flavors, or ingredients. Their snacks are gluten-free and kosher!  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Hassan joins Jeremy on the podcast to talk about The Daily Crave.  [2:00] Picking a brand name and getting the business started.  [5:40] The flavor selections at The Daily Crave and how it changed over time.  [8:40] Challenges that Hassan and his team have run into.  [10:40] Proud moments from the journey.  [12:30] Closing thoughts.  In this episode… When was the last time you gave in to your cravings and didn’t feel guilty about it the next day? What is your guilty pleasure - chocolate, potato chips, ice cream, or something else? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from entrepreneur and business

Jennifer Martin is a co-founder of Pip Snacks. She and her older brother Jeff started Pipsnacks in 2012 with $3,000 in the bank, first handing out their product in hand-stamped brown bags. Along the way, the pair received funding on an episode of Shark Tank from Barbara Corcoran. Their better-for-you popcorn brand, which comes in flavors like rosemary, truffle, and sea salt, now sells in Whole Foods, Target and more. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Jennifer Martin joins the podcast to talk about Pip Snacks.  [2:50] Popular flavors and products.  [4:20] When did heirloom snacks come from? What is it like working with family?  [6:40] Why it’s a good idea to grow slow.  [8:00] Closing thoughts.  In this episode… Did you know that slow growth can actually be healthy and beneficial for your business? It’s true! While fast growth is desired by many, the truth is - it’s often unsustainable. On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from business leader and innovator Jennifer Martin. In her co

Wanda James is the founder and CEO of Simply Pure Dispensary. Along with her husband Scott Durrah, they became the first African Americans, legally licensed in America, to own a dispensary, a cultivation facility and an edible company. As a leading advocate in the cannabis industry, Wanda’s political and entrepreneurial work on cannabis reform has led to her being named one of the 100 Most Influential People in Cannabis by High Times magazine in 2018, one of the 2016 Cannabis Business Executive (CBE) 50 Most Important Women in the Cannabis Industry, and has been featured in numerous shows including The BBC, Democracy Now,The Atlantic, MIC.com, MSNBC, Smile Jamaica, ViceLand, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, CBS Sunday Morning Holiday Special, “Eat, Drink and be Merry” and CNBC’s Marijuana USA. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [2:45] Jeremy welcomes his guest, Wanda James.  [4:40] Wanda talks about cannabis and the history of slave labor in the US.  [15:00] What was Wanda’s childhood like?  [18:45] Why

Joy Thompkins and Carol Podolak are the founders of Bnutty - a gourmet peanut butter company. With 10 exciting flavors such as Irresistible Pretzel, Blissful Blueberry, Salted Caramel and S'mores - Bnutty has a unique and exciting take on peanut butter. Starting with a honey roasted nut, this crunchy peanut butter snack has a satisfying texture and delicious flavor. All flavors are available in 2 sizes; 12 oz jars and a 2 oz individual serving. All products are gluten free. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Joy Thompkins and Carol Podolak join Jeremy on the podcast.  [1:40] Getting featured on QVC.  [3:30] What was the original Bnutty product like?  In this episode… What does it take to get a niche, speciality food business off the ground and running? Do you need to have a long history in the food industry? Do you need to have a culinary degree to be successful? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from business leaders Joy Thompkins and Carol Podolak. In their conversation with Jer

Stormy Simon is the former president of Overstock.com. She joined in 2001 during the formative years of e-commerce and at the time revenue was less than $20M and with a staff of under 100. In her career, she has gone from executive assistant to VP of Branding to VP of customer care to CMO to eventually becoming President. During her tenure, Overstock became a top 25 e-tailer by traffic and grew to nearly $2B in revenue and had approximately 1600 employees.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [2:40] Jeremy introduces his guest, Stormy Simon.  [4:40] Stormy shares her career trajectory and how it has changed over the years.  [12:40] A story from Stormy’s Hard Rock Cafe days.  [16:30] What Stormy wanted to do when she was a child.  [20:00] How having a child shifted Stormy’s perspective.  [22:00] Stormy talks about her time at Overstock.  [33:00] What were some of the early products featured on Overstock?  [36:30] Hard decisions Stormy made as the president of Overstock.  [41:20] Why the founder of Oversto

Suzie Yorke is the founder of Love Good Fats. She is also a mom, a triathlete (11X Ironman Finisher), a yogi and Marketing Executive and now, on a fierce mission to spread the word that fat is back and sugar it out.   Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:40] Jeremy welcomes his guest, Suzie Yorke.  [1:40] What let Suzie to start Love Good Fats?  [3:00] Making fat bombs.  [4:30] Suzie talks about work-life balance.  [6:00] Getting the right people around you can make all the difference.  In this episode… What if you never had to worry about low-fat foods ever again? Can you imagine how nice it would be to enjoy that steak guilt-free or spread butter on a piece of toast without worrying about how it will affect your health? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from entrepreneur and innovator Suzie Yorke. In her conversation with Jeremy, Suzie opens up about her journey, why she started Love Good Fats, what it was like navigating a work-life balance, and much more. You don’t want to miss a mi

Lee Bellinger is the founder of Independent Living News which has a private subscription and they have products for off the grid living, survival in an emergency, gaining independent income and much more. He is the inventor of the PowerWhisperer Home Power Backup System. Independent Living is noted for its successful predictions and in February 1998, Lee published a front page illustrated prediction story on the destruction of the World Trade Center by terrorists.s  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [0:37] Jeremy introduces his guest, Lee Bellinger.  [1:50] What does Lee’s morning routine look like?  [3:30] Lee talks about predicting the World Trade Center attack.  [13:00] What was it like living off the grid on a yacht?  [15:10] Lee opens up about his childhood.  [17:20] Stories from Lee’s yacht.  [21:40] How did Lee end up in publishing?  [24:45] Early popular articles that Lee published.  [27:40] What is Lee’s research process?  [29:30] Why Lee is worried about the national power grid.  [31:00] Deve